Model Monday- Rae Williams

 

Congratulations on all of your success as a Plus Size Model. How did you get started modeling?

In middle and high school, I was a huge theatre kid and in high school our teacher encouraged me to get headshots done. When I went in for headshots, the photographer encouraged me to actually try to look into how I could model. At the time, I wasn’t aware of any “plus size” models, but as I started researching, I came across the beautiful Mia Amber on a website called Model Mayhem, and she gave me tips and I started my portfolio and began working.

What has been your favorite experience thus far – the one you are most proud of?

I think my favorite experience so far has definitely been helping Rue 21 launch their plus size line in 2014. I wore Rue 21 all the time as a child, so it was super awesome to help them launch a line specifically for us curvy girls!

Just like any craft there is a learning curve – how did you learn how to model – both print and runway if applicable?

I studied magazine poses, and would practice in the mirror for hours a day practicing facial expressions and poses. I also attended boot camps and model intensives in the New York area that were held by plus models like Jeannie Ferguson, Liris Cross and Plus Model Magazine.

Did you have mentors or role models who helped and inspired you along the way?

I think one of my biggest role models has been Wyinnetka, I had the opportunity to meet her at Full Figured Fashion Week in 2013, and she gave me some very encouraging advice to keep striving and not give up on what I want.

 

The Plus Size Industry has changed and continues to evolve – how do you think as a model you are able to help make an impact in how the world sees plus size women?

I think as a model, it’s my job to strive to have a beautiful, loving relationship with my own body and encourage other women to do the same. As a plus model, I am showing the world that we all come in different shapes and sizes, and we are all beautiful.

You exude confidence with every step you take, were you always this confident? Tell us a little bit about the journey to confidence.

I definitely wasn’t always super confident in myself. I was teased a lot growing up, and as the only plus size girl in my group of friends, I was often the “wing-woman.” I was also raped as a teenager, and I eternalized that as my fault, and had a hard time understanding that my body was my own. After winning the battle of being prediabetic- I realized how great it felt to take care of my body, my needs and my wants. Loving myself truly, and appreciating my body for all it is able to accomplish has helped me with my confidence.

For our readers who are interested in starting a plus model career, what would you suggest are some top tips to get started?

3 top tips I would give are 1) Be professional 2) Know your body for posing 3) Network.

As a model you’ve had the opportunity to wear a variety of different styles, but what would we catch you in on an “off duty” day? What would you call your fashion sense and how has this evolved through your modeling career?

I’m a tight pair of jeans, a cute blouse with a leather jacket paired with booties or sneakers type of girl, all-the-way! I love being comfortable, looking good and being able to function in multiple situations. I call it “Tomboy Chic”. When I first started modeling, I had NO personal style- I typically would just end up wearing similar outfits that people styled me in on set, now that my confidence has developed, I’ve definitely created my own style lane.

 

What are you some of your favourite places to shop your style?

My favorite places to shop are Fashion To Figure, Boohoo & Asos!! Love their options.

What does life look for you outside of the modeling world?

Outside of the modeling world, I go to NYU full time as a Graduate Student for Public Relations. I’m a health & fitness enthusiast who shows love to my body thru movement. I’m also a major explorer, I love going out and dancing.

Thank you for taking time to chat with us today! What is one message you would like to leave with our readers today?

One message I would like to leave with the readers, is to be true to yourself & always continue to strive for the best version of yourselves. The best project to ever work on, is yourself.

 

Social Media:

Website/Blog: www.RaeWilliams.net

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItsThatGirlRae/

Twitter: @ThatGirlRae__

Instagram: @ThatGirlRae__

Snapchat: RaeWilliams_24